Under a crisp spring sky, 33,000 runners from 55 countries and regions poured onto the streets of Dalian, Liaoning Province in the Chinese mainland, marking the start of the 35th Dalian Marathon. More than a race, the event has become a showcase for the seamless fusion of sport, culture and tourism.
This year's field included 430 international runners, drawing talent from all over the world. Athletes from Ethiopia and Kenya dominated the podiums, capturing the finish line in both the full marathon and half marathon categories.
The 42.195-kilometer full course led participants past iconic landmarks like Xinghai Square and along Dalian's scenic coastline, offering a real-time tour of the city's vibrant urban landscape. Half marathon runners navigated a 21-kilometer route weaving through Dalian's historic districts and modern beachfronts.
Off the course, hundreds of food stalls, live music performances and art installations created a festival atmosphere, turning streets into an open-air cultural expo. Local tourism operators reported a surge in hotel bookings and guided tours, highlighting the marathon's role in driving sustainable tourism growth.
For young global citizens and digital nomads, the Dalian Marathon stands out as a bucket-list experience that blends athletic challenge with cultural exploration. As the city gears up for next year's run, organizers aim to build on this year's momentum by integrating tech-driven fan engagement and immersive travel packages.
Reference(s):
Dalian Marathon 2025: A celebration of sport, culture and tourism
cgtn.com
